Lateral Load Connector Device
Under the current code, you will most likely be required to install a positive connection to the house wall to resist lateral loads. Lateral loads can result from earthquakes or from people moving around on your deck. In severe cases, these loads can result in the ledger board being ripped from the house wall and collapsing.
Another method involves installing hold downs to the side of a house floor joist and attaching it to another hold down installed on the side of one of your deck joists with a threaded rod. Some wood or engineered I-joist manufacturers have developed details for this type of attachment to their products. This method is much more difficult than using the DTT1Z connnection because it involves an attachment through the house wall. It is often difficult to gain access to the interior floor system of your house to make this option user-friendly.
The easiest way to ensure your ledger board connection will satisfy this requirement is to install 4 hold down devices. You will need to pre-drill and attach this connector to the solid house rim with a 3/8" diameter, fully threaded lag screw so that it has a minimum 3" penetration to the center of the top plate, studs or header. This L-shaped hold down bracket is then screwed to the bottom of the deck joist. The hold down device will have a minimum 750 lb capacity at 4 locations evenly distributed along the deck and 1 within 2' of each end of the ledger board. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions when installing deck hardware.
Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim
Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.
Attaching the Ledger Board to Brick Siding
Do you have brick siding? You should never attach to just the brick. This is very dangerous.
Removing the Siding
Learn how to cut and remove aluminum, vinyl, wood and cement board siding for installing a deck ledger board to a house wall.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When it comes to cleaning your deck, it's important to choose the right pressure washer. Use this pressure washer buying guide from Decks.com to help with your decision!
How to Pressure Wash a Deck
Pressure washing your deck is the best way to keep your investment looking like new. Learn how to properly clean your wood deck with these tips from Decks.com.
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what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
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Follow our tips to properly install a deck ledger board around the corner of a house to keep water out.
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Our inspector discusses how to attach a deck to a hollow concrete block foundation wall.
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Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights